Listen "EP 72 w/ Dr. Annette West | Talking All Books | The Rise of Micropublishing"
Episode Synopsis
Publishing Pusher Podcast — EP 72Talking All Books with Dr. Annette West🎙️ Episode Title: The Rise of Micropublishing: Why Small Is the New BigRuntime: ~50 minutesHost: Dr. Annette West, The Publishing PusherSeries: Talking All Books (Thursdays at 10 AM EST)🎧 Episode SummaryIn this episode of Talking All Books, Dr. Annette West dives deep into a publishing revolution that’s reshaping how authors share their work—the rise of micropublishing. With her signature wisdom and enthusiasm, Dr. West explains how small, independent presses are empowering authors to take control of their creative and financial futures.She explores why “small is the new big” in today’s publishing landscape—covering topics like creative freedom, higher royalties, niche targeting, and the power of direct-to-reader relationships. Through personal insight and practical examples, Dr. West helps listeners understand how to build their own boutique publishing model, monetize effectively, and stay centered in Christ as they grow as creative entrepreneurs.💡 Key Themes & Takeaways1. What Is Micropublishing?Micropublishing is an independent publishing model in which authors act as small presses, controlling production, design, marketing, and distribution.Gives creative control back to the author.Enables higher royalty returns (70–90%) vs. traditional rates (5–15%).Encourages mission-driven publishing aligned with personal and spiritual values.2. Why “Small Is the New Big”Creative Freedom: No corporate gatekeepers; authors decide what, how, and when to publish.Higher Royalties: Keep more from every sale—especially when selling directly.Community Focus: Smaller presses serve niche audiences deeply rather than appealing to everyone.Sustainability: Less overhead, more agility, and direct feedback from loyal readers.3. Direct-to-Reader RevolutionPlatforms like Shopify, Substack, Patreon, and BookFunnel are transforming author income models.Dr. West explains how book funnels work—leading readers from discovery to purchase to community membership.Building email lists, hosting private reader groups, and using podcasts or newsletters help authors own their audience and revenue.4. Faith & Identity in PublishingDr. West ties her new devotional series, Centered in Christ: Developing My Identity and Self-Worth, to the publishing conversation—reminding authors that:“Our worth is not rooted in temporary measures, but in being centered in Christ.”She encourages creators to approach their writing as ministry—serving others while staying grounded in spiritual purpose.5. The Micropublisher MindsetShift from “I’m just an author” to “I’m a publishing entrepreneur.”Hire professional editors, designers, and assistants where needed.Set boundaries—say no to projects that don’t align with your brand or values.Measure success by depth, not volume—impacting a focused audience consistently.6. Real-World Success StoriesAn 86-year-old author sells her etiquette book in classroom bundles—proving age and scale are no barrier.A children’s author sold 5,000 copies through homeschool networks—without Amazon.A Christian fiction author built a Shopify store, bundling devotionals with journals and coaching sessions.Each demonstrates how direct connection, creativity, and niche focus redefine success.🧭 Practical Steps to Thrive as a MicropublisherDefine your niche. Know who your book serves.Develop your direct channel. Email list, podcast, or online store.Invest in quality. Editing, formatting, and design matter.Repurpose content. Turn books into devotionals, videos, or courses.Stay consistent. Use the S3 Model: Show up, Speak out, Share.“If you don’t show up, people don’t know you exist. If you don’t speak out, people don’t know what you have to say. If you don’t share, people don’t know what’s in your toolbox.” — Dr. Annette West.✝️ Faith Reflection“You don’t have to be big to make a significant impact. If you serve King Jesus, you are the visible manifestation of His invisible presence.”Dr. West closes the episode, reminding authors that purpose—not platform size—determines the objective measure of success. Connect with Dr. Annette West🌐 Website:JATNpublishing.org📧 Email: [email protected]📺 YouTube: JATN Publishing📘 Facebook: JATN Publishing Group📸 Instagram: @JATN_publishing🗣️ Call to ActionIf this episode inspired you to take control of your publishing journey:Share your most significant takeaway using #PublishingPusherPodcast.Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite platform.Join the Talking All Books discussion every Thursday with Dr. Annette West.🕊️ Quote of the Week“You don’t have to wait for someone else’s permission to publish your purpose.” — Dr. Annette West.
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